The karst forest in southwestern China is characterized by thin soil layers,numerous fissures and holes,resulting in low soil water availability and poor water retention,making it challenging for plant growth and surv...The karst forest in southwestern China is characterized by thin soil layers,numerous fissures and holes,resulting in low soil water availability and poor water retention,making it challenging for plant growth and survival.While the relationship between plant functional traits and tree growth performance has been extensively studied,the links between tree seasonal growth and drought-tolerant traits in tree species with different leaf habit remains poorly understood.This study evaluated the associations between four-year averaged rainy season stem diameter growth rate and 17 branch and leaf traits across evergreen and deciduous species in a tropical karst forest in southwest China.The cross-species variations in tree growth rates were related to plant hydraulic traits(e.g.,vessel lumen diameter,xylem vessel density,stomatal density,and stomatal size)and leaf anatomical traits(e.g.,total leaf thickness,lower/upper epidermis thickness,and spongy thickness).The growth of evergreen trees exhibited lower hydraulic efficiency but greater drought tolerance than deciduous tree,which enabled them to maintain higher persistence under low soil water availability and consequently a relatively longer growing season.In contrast,deciduous species showed no correlation between their functional traits and growth rate.The distinct water use strategies of evergreen and deciduous trees may offer a potential explanation for their co-existence in the tropical karst forests.展开更多
To screen high-quality early-maturing rapeseed germplasm resources,this study took six early-maturing Brassica napus varieties(ZY1,ZY2,ZY3,ZY4,ZY5,and ZY6)as research objects to compare and analyze their agronomic tra...To screen high-quality early-maturing rapeseed germplasm resources,this study took six early-maturing Brassica napus varieties(ZY1,ZY2,ZY3,ZY4,ZY5,and ZY6)as research objects to compare and analyze their agronomic traits,resistance,and yield traits.The results showed that the six early-maturing rapeseed varieties exhibited strong pre-winter growth,with the number of green leaf on the main stem ranging from 9.0 to 11.6,the total leaf number of main stem from 11.8 to 14.2,the maximum leaf length on main stem from 41.28 cm to 47.54 cm,the maximum leaf width from 12.02 cm to 13.38 cm,and the rhizome thickness from 20.64 mm to 25.82 mm.The order of green leaf,total leaf,maximum leaf length,and rhizome thickness from high to low across varieties was ZY1>ZY2>ZY3>ZY4>ZY5>ZY6,while the maximum leaf width followed ZY2>ZY1>ZY3>ZY4>ZY5>ZY6.Compared with other varieties,ZY1 and ZY2 had earlier bolting,initial flowering,final flowering,and harvesting times.The growth periods of the varieties were 183-189 d,with ZY1 being the shortest(183 d)and ZY2 following(185 d).Resistance investigations showed that ZY1 had the lowest freeze damage rate(13%)and freeze damage index(0.043),followed by ZY2(15%and 0.060).No Sclerotinia stem rot was observed at the seedling stage,while all varieties developed the disease at maturity;ZY1 had the lowest incidence(15%)and disease index(0.050),followed by ZY2(18%and 0.070).In terms of yield traits,the yield per plant of the six varieties ranged from 11.46 g to 14.53 g,with ZY1 being the highest(14.53 g)and ZY2 following(13.42 g).In conclusion,ZY1 and ZY2 exhibited vigorous pre-winter growth,early bolting and flowering,short growth periods,strong freeze and disease resistance,and high yield per plant,making them ideal materials for early-maturing rapeseed breeding.展开更多
Heading date is one of the most important agronomic traits that directly affect rice yield and determines the regional adaptability in specific growing environments.As a short-day plant,rice can grow under long-day(LD...Heading date is one of the most important agronomic traits that directly affect rice yield and determines the regional adaptability in specific growing environments.As a short-day plant,rice can grow under long-day(LD)conditions due to the synergistic regulation of many photosensitive genes.Using a set of chromosome segment substitution lines(CSSLs)with the indica cultivar Huanghuazhan(HHZ)as the recipient parent and Basmati Surkh 89-15(BAS)as the donor parent,we identified a QTL locus.展开更多
Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant h...Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant hybrids breeding.In this study,a major QTL,Resistance to Pythium stalk rot 1(RPSR1),was identified from a set of recombinant inbred lines derived from MS71 and POP.Using a recombinant progeny testing strategy,RPSR1 was fine-mapped in a 472 kb interval.Through candidate gene expression,gene knock-down and knock-out studies,a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase gene,PEP RECEPTOR 2(ZmPEPR2),was assigned as a PSR resistance gene.These results provide insights into the genetic architecture of resistance to PSR in maize,which should facilitate breeding maize for resistance to stalk rot.展开更多
Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional bree...Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional breeding methods raise concerns about reduced genetic diversity,epibreeding propels crop improvement through epigenetic variations that regulate gene expression,ultimately impacting crop yield.Epigenetic regulation in crops encompasses various modes,including histone modification,DNA modification,RNA modification,non-coding RNA,and chromatin remodeling.This review summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms underlying major agronomic traits in maize and identifies candidate epigenetic landmarks in the maize breeding process.We propose a valuable strategy for improving maize yield through epibreeding,combining CRISPR/Cas-based epigenome editing technology and Synthetic Epigenetics(SynEpi).Finally,we discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with maize trait improvement through epibreeding.展开更多
Introduction: Sickle cell disease is one of the most common autosomal recessive inherited diseases. Its prevalence is increasing due to the perpetuity of carriers of the trait who are able to marry. Women aged 18 to 3...Introduction: Sickle cell disease is one of the most common autosomal recessive inherited diseases. Its prevalence is increasing due to the perpetuity of carriers of the trait who are able to marry. Women aged 18 to 35 years constitute the most reproductive age group. This study was conducted with the aim of determining the prevalence of sickle cell trait among women aged 18 to 35 years and the attitude of women carriers towards the choice of a carrier spouse. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study with analytical aims conducted from March to September 2024 in Kisangani. A total of 215 women aged 18 to 35 years presented for screening for sickle cell trait. This study described the following parameters: Sociodemographic data (age, level of education, socioeconomic level, marital status), obstetric and medical history (obstetric formula, sickle cell disease, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, asthma), knowledge of sickle cell disease (etiological classification, transmission, prevention, high-risk marriages, clinical manifestations, progression of the disease), attitude of the woman in relation to the choice of an AS spouse, as well as the reasons justifying each attitude. Results: The prevalence of sickle cell trait was 23.7% (51/215). A total of 64.3% of respondents had accepted the choice of spouse before confirmation of carrier status and 73.8% had refused after confirmation of carrier status. Choice was significantly related to age (p-value = 0.027), occupation (p-value = 0.015), parity (p-value = 0.039) and gesture (p-value = 0.034) before test. The ignorance of the union at risk was associated with the risk (p = 0.005;OR: 9.10;CI 95%: 2.03 - 4.81) of accepting the choice of a spouse carrying the trait. Conclusion: The prevalence of sickle cell trait among women aged 18 to 35 years in Kisangani remains within the limits of that of the general population. The choice of a spouse carrying sickle cell trait is associated with the woman’s age, her profession, parity, gestation and her knowledge about high-risk unions. Screening campaigns and health education sessions enable women carrying sickle cell trait to make a wise choice.展开更多
Objective:The combination of science and art in nursing is essential for providing effective care.Since art is inherent and a part of human personality traits,it is believed that nurses’personality traits are importa...Objective:The combination of science and art in nursing is essential for providing effective care.Since art is inherent and a part of human personality traits,it is believed that nurses’personality traits are important to achieve this cohesive combination in nursing.Accordingly,this study was conducted to determine the relationship between nurses’personality traits and the esthetics of nursing care.Methods:A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed.Study participants that consisted of 95 nurses and 285 patients from health centers in Iran were selected by convenience sampling method.Measures included the five-factor personality questionnaires(NEO-FFI)scale and Esthetics of Nursing Care Scale(ENCS).Results:The findings indicated a significant relationship between neuroticism(r=−0.149,P=0.028)and extraversion traits(r=0.136,P=0.045)of nurses in esthetics nursing care.In this study,no significant relationship was found between the personality traits and esthetics of nursing care using nurses’demographic information.Conclusions:The esthetics of nursing care depends on nurse personality traits.Since the art of nursing complements the expected care,it is suggested that nursing managers pay attention to the personality traits of nurses in planning to provide effective care.展开更多
Amomum tsaoko Crevost&Lemarie is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Amomum in the family Zingiberaceae(Fig.S1;Wu and Kai,2000).It is primarily distributed in southern China,with smaller populations occurring ...Amomum tsaoko Crevost&Lemarie is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Amomum in the family Zingiberaceae(Fig.S1;Wu and Kai,2000).It is primarily distributed in southern China,with smaller populations occurring in northern Vietnam(Yang et al.,2022).The dried fruit of A.tsaoko is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating gastrointestinal disorders,vomiting,and malaria(Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission,2025).展开更多
This study investigated the political,economic,social,and cultural environment perceptions on international students that define their acculturation and health related quality of life.Participants were 117 internation...This study investigated the political,economic,social,and cultural environment perceptions on international students that define their acculturation and health related quality of life.Participants were 117 international students from 32 countries attending a Chinese university(females=43%,mean age=21.17 years,SD=4.45 years).They reported on their acculturation to China and physical and psychological well-being.Results from t-tests and correlation analyses indicate political liberals had more positive attitudes toward China than the conservatives,and higher self-reported physical and psychological results.Higher scores on the“interdependence”dimension of self-construal,as well as the“extraversion”and“emotional stability”dimensions of personality traits,were associated with more positive views of China and better health outcomes.These findings are consistent with Berry’s framework for acculturation,which posits that individual-level variables are related to cultural adaptation,and that cultural adaptation is associated with improved physical and mental health.International student offices at host universities should implement comprehensive support programs,including language assistance,cultural orientation,and social integration initiatives to effectively enhance the health related quality of life of international students.展开更多
Topographic complexity supports the maintenance of a high diversity of microhabitats,which may act as important‘safe havens’-or microrefugia-for biodiversity.Microrefugia are sites with specific environmental condit...Topographic complexity supports the maintenance of a high diversity of microhabitats,which may act as important‘safe havens’-or microrefugia-for biodiversity.Microrefugia are sites with specific environmental conditions that facilitate the persistence of species during environmental changes and exhibit unique ecoevolutionary dynamics.However,our knowledge about how topographic complexity and related ecoevolutionary selective forces influence the functional and phylogenetic signatures of species assemblages in microrefugia is very limited.Although the conceptual framework on the systematic integration of plant functional traits into the study of refugia is well established,more empirical studies on functional trait composition and functional diversity in refugia are urgently needed for more effective conservation.Here we analyzed the distribution of various plant functional traits and phylogenetic patterns in microhabitats(south-and north-facing slopes,and bottoms)of 30 large topographic depressions(i.e.doline microrefugia)and microhabitats of the surrounding plateaus in two distant forested karst regions.We found that plant assemblages in the understory of dolines and their surroundings are characterized by unique functional values and combinations of traits.Doline bottoms had the highest functional diversity among doline microhabitats and supported plant assemblages with considerably different trait compositions from the plateaus.Bottoms also had the highest phylogenetic diversity.These results suggest that topographic complexity in forested dolines has a significant effect on the distribution of plant functional traits in the understory.High functional and phylogenetic diversity in doline bottoms can have important consequences for the long-term survival of plant populations,highlighting that these microhabitats may provide a higher resilience and support an adaptive community-level response to natural and anthropogenic stressors.Understanding mechanisms that drive the survival of species within microrefugia is required to determine the best conservation and management strategies.展开更多
Heat stress hinders the growth and productivity of sweetpotato plants,predominantly through oxidative damage to cellular membranes.Therefore,the development of efficient approaches for mitigating heat-related impairme...Heat stress hinders the growth and productivity of sweetpotato plants,predominantly through oxidative damage to cellular membranes.Therefore,the development of efficient approaches for mitigating heat-related impairments is essential for the long-term production of sweetpotatoes.Melatonin has been recognised for its capacity to assist plants in dealing with abiotic stress conditions.This research aimed to investigate how different doses of exogenous melatonin influence heat damage in sweetpotato plants.Heat stress drastically affected shoot and root fresh weight by 31.8 and 44.5%,respectively.This reduction resulted in oxidative stress characterised by increased formation of hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2))by 804.4%,superoxide ion(O_(2)^(·-))by 211.5%and malondialdehyde(MDA)by 234.2%.Heat stress also reduced chlorophyll concentration,photosystemⅡefficiency(F_v/F_m)by 15.3%and gaseous exchange.However,pre-treatment with 100μmol L^(-1)melatonin increased growth and reduced oxidative damage to sweetpotato plants under heat stress.In particular,melatonin decreased H_(2)O_(2),O_(2)^(·-)and MDA by 64.8%,42.7%and 38.2%,respectively.Melatonin also mitigated the decline in chlorophyll levels and improved stomatal traits,gaseous exchange and F_(v)/F_(m)(13%).Results suggested that the favorable outcomes of melatonin treatment can be associated with elevated antioxidant enzyme activity and an increase in non-enzymatic antioxidants and osmo-protectants.Overall,these findings indicate that exogenous melatonin can improve heat stress tolerance in sweetpotatoes.This stu dy will assist re searchers in further investigating how melatonin makes sweetpotatoes more resistant to heat stress.展开更多
Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is an important staple food crop in the world and supplies about 20%of human caloric and protein consumption(Giraldo et al.,2019;Xiao et al.,2022).Wheat production accounts for~30%of global ...Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is an important staple food crop in the world and supplies about 20%of human caloric and protein consumption(Giraldo et al.,2019;Xiao et al.,2022).Wheat production accounts for~30%of global cereal crops(Li et al.,2019).With the global population increasing and the frequency of natural disasters rising,enhancing wheat yield is crucial to meet food demand.Spike traits such as increased grain number per spike are key determinants of wheat yield.Pre-harvest sprouting(PHS)is a significant natural disaster that severely impacts grain yield and end-use quality of wheat(Tai et al.,2021,2024).展开更多
Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to bird communities, especially those in open and semi-open ecosystems such as steppes. This study investigates how steppe birds adapt to and utilize fragmented habitat...Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to bird communities, especially those in open and semi-open ecosystems such as steppes. This study investigates how steppe birds adapt to and utilize fragmented habitats by combining niche modeling with ecological trait analysis. We conducted standardized point surveys to examine the habitat preferences of 32 bird species in Inner Mongolia, China, and quantified their habitat niche parameters using the Outlying Mean Index (OMI). Our results reveal distinct habitat preferences among species, with some thriving in intact environments while others are better adapted to fragmented areas. Grassland species showed high specialization along the fragmentation gradient, while others exhibited adaptability to varying levels of fragmentation. Using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM), we identified three key traits influencing habitat occupancy: hand-wing index, body mass, and range size. Specifically, species with medium hand-wing indices, moderate body mass, and larger range sizes were more likely to occupy heavily fragmented habitats. These findings provide empirical evidence on how habitat fragmentation affects bird species in steppe ecosystems. The study highlights the importance of functional traits in understanding avian responses to habitat fragmentation and offers a foundation for developing effective conservation strategies to preserve biodiversity in fragmented landscapes.展开更多
Root anatomical traits play an important role in understanding the link between root physiological function and ecological process. To determine how plants change root anatomical traits to adapt to distinct environmen...Root anatomical traits play an important role in understanding the link between root physiological function and ecological process. To determine how plants change root anatomical traits to adapt to distinct environments, we measured four key root anatomical traits-stele diameter(SD), cortex thickness(CT), root diameter(RD), and the stele to root diameter ratio(SDRD)-of first-order roots of 82species collected from different vegetation zones along a 2000 m altitudinal gradient on the northern slope of Taibai Mountain. Compared with other altitudes, plants located in temperate birch and fir forests had thinner SD, CT, RD, and SDRD. We found that elevational variation in root anatomical traits could largely be explained by phylogenetic taxonomy(clade). In addition, changes in SD were driven by soil bulk density, whereas variations in CT and RD were influenced by soil available nitrogen. When phylogenetic factors were removed from our analysis, allometric relationships between RD and root anatomical traits(SD and CT) were observed across different altitudes. Our study reveals the influence of phylogeny and environment on the elevational variation in root anatomical traits and further supports the allometric relationship between root anatomical traits(SD and CT) and RD. These findings enhance our understanding of the evolutionary and adaptive mechanisms of root anatomical structures, providing a basis for predicting how root anatomical traits respond to global changes.展开更多
Rapid urbanization has contributed to global increases in air pollution derived from urban areas.Unlike natural forests,urban forests are exposed to higher concentrations of airborne pollutants due to the strong urban...Rapid urbanization has contributed to global increases in air pollution derived from urban areas.Unlike natural forests,urban forests are exposed to higher concentrations of airborne pollutants due to the strong urban-suburban-rural pollutant emission gradients.However,there remains a pressing lack of available information pertaining to the urban air pollutionrelated effects on the leaf economics spectrum,anatomical,ultrastructural,and stomatal traits of tree species along an urban-rural gradient.Here,the degree to which urban air pollution impacts the adaption of greening tree species and associated service functions was assessed by sampling five common tree species(Acer pictum,Fraxinus chinensis,Koelreuteria paniculata,Salix babylonica,Sophora japonica)along urban-rural-natural forests in the Beijing metropolitan region of China.These analyses revealed a significant reduction in leaf mass per unit area(-13.4%),leaf thickness(-16.7%),and stomatal area(-27.5%)with increasing proximity to areas of greater air pollution that coincide with significant increases in leaf tissue density(+12.6%),leaf nitrogen content(+10.1%),relative chlorophyll content(+2.7%),and stomatal density(+11.9%).Higher air pollution levels were associated with organelle changes including gradual disintegration of chloroplasts,larger intercellular spaces and apparent starch and plastoglobuli deposition.Air pollutionwas conducive to the strengthening of the trade-off potential and adaptation strategies of trees in urban ecosystems,which are associated with trees with a rapid investment return strategy associated with thick leaves and strong photosynthetic capacity.These results provide strong empirical evidence of the profound air pollution-induced changes in leaf functional traits and adaption ability of urban forest tree species.展开更多
Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determin...Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determinant of cotton(Gossypium hirsutum)crop performance,influencing germination,plant vigor,and yield.This study evaluates the effects of seed priming with potassium salts(1%and 2%KCl and K2SO4)on germination,morphological traits,and Cry1Ac gene expression in three Bt cotton cultivars(IUB-2013,NIAB-878B,FH-142)as Cry1Ac enhance the pest resistance in Bt cotton and reduce the plant’s dependence on chemical insecticides.Seeds were primed for six hours,air-dried,and sown in the field.Germination rates,plant height,number of bolls per plant,boll weight,seed cotton yield,and ginning outturn(GOT)were assessed at crop maturity.Cry1Ac gene expression was quantified to explore the influence of priming treatments on transgene activity.Results demonstrated that 1%K2SO4 priming significantly enhanced germination and yield-related traits,with Cry1Ac expression peaking in the IUB-2013 cultivar under 1%K2SO4 treatment.These findings suggest that potassium-based halopriming improves cotton seedling establishment and Bt gene expression.This study addresses the critical gaps in understanding the effects of seed halopriming on morphological traits,germination,and expression of the Cry1Ac gene in Bt cotton while providing a novel eco-friendly and cost-effective halopriming approach,offering the potential to improve cotton production.展开更多
Gossypium raimondii(2n=2x=26,D_(5)),an untapped wild species,is the putative progenitor of the D-subgenome of G.hirsutum(2n=4x=52,AD_(1)),an extensively cultivated species.Here,we developed a G.hirsutum(recipient)–G....Gossypium raimondii(2n=2x=26,D_(5)),an untapped wild species,is the putative progenitor of the D-subgenome of G.hirsutum(2n=4x=52,AD_(1)),an extensively cultivated species.Here,we developed a G.hirsutum(recipient)–G.raimondii(donor)introgression population to exploit the favorable QTLs/genes and mapped potential quantitative trait loci(QTLs)from wild cotton species.The introgression population consisted of 256 lines with an introgression rate of 52.33%for the G.raimondii genome.The introgression segment length range was 0.03–19.12 Mb,with an average of 1.22 Mb.The coverage of total introgression fragments from G.raimondii was 386.98 Mb.Further genome-wide association analysis(Q+K+MLM)and QTL mapping(RSTEP-LRT)identified 59 common QTLs,including 14 stable QTLs and six common QTL(co-QTL)clusters,and one hotspot of micronaire(MIC).The common QTLs for seed index all showed positive additive effects,while the common QTLs for boll weight all had negative additive effects,indicating that the linkage between seed index and boll weight could be broken.QTLs for lint percentage showed positive effects and could be beneficial for improving cotton yield.Most QTLs for fiber quality had negative additive effects,implying these QTLs were domesticated/improved in G.hirsutum.A few fiber quality QTLs showed positive additive effects,so they could be used to improve cotton fiber quality.The introgression lines developed could be useful for molecular marker-assisted breeding and mapping QTLs precisely for mining desirable genes from the wild species G.raimondii.Such genes can improve cultivated cotton in the future through a designbreeding approach.展开更多
Understanding how species diverge and adapt is fundamental to unraveling biodiversity.While environmental impacts on species evolution are well-documented,the roles of intrinsic life-history traits remain underexplore...Understanding how species diverge and adapt is fundamental to unraveling biodiversity.While environmental impacts on species evolution are well-documented,the roles of intrinsic life-history traits remain underexplored.The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau,with its harsh conditions and unique biodiversity,offers a natural laboratory for such investigations.Here,we examine two sympatric small mammals—the solitary,low-dispersal plateau zokor(Eospalax baileyi)and the social,high-dispersal plateau pika(Ochotona curzoniae)—to elucidate how life-history traits shape population structures and adaptive strategies.Through whole-genome sequencing and cardiac-blood phenotype analyses,we reveal striking differences in their evolutionary trajectories.Despite enduring similar environmental pressures,plateau zokor populations exhibit pronounced genetic subdivisions,high inbreeding,and distinct local adaptations.In contrast,plateau pika populations display genetic panmixia,widespread diversity,and adaptive uniformity.Demographic inference highlights that plateau zokors experienced severe population bottlenecks and restricted gene flow during glacial periods,underscoring the impact of dispersal capacity on evolutionary outcomes.Our findings demonstrate that intrinsic biological traits,particularly dispersal ability,fundamentally influence genetic architecture,population connectivity,and local adaptation.This study not only provides empirical evidence of how life-history traits shape evolutionary dynamics but also offers a framework for integrating intrinsic and extrinsic factors in understanding biodiversity formation.展开更多
Several quantitative trait genes(QTGs)related to rice heading date,a key factor for crop development and yield,have been identified,along with complex interactions among genes.However,a comprehensive genetic interacti...Several quantitative trait genes(QTGs)related to rice heading date,a key factor for crop development and yield,have been identified,along with complex interactions among genes.However,a comprehensive genetic interaction network for these QTGs has not yet been established.In this study,we use 18K-rice lines to identify QTGs and their epistatic interactions affecting rice heading date.We identify 264 pairs of interacting quantitative trait loci(QTL)and construct a comprehensive genetic network of these QTL.On average,the epistatic effects of QTL pairs are estimated to be approximately 12.5%of additive effects of identified QTL.Importantly,epistasis varies among different alleles of several heading date genes.Additionally,57 pairs of interacting QTGs are also significant in their epistatic effects on 12 other agronomic traits.The identified QTL genetic interactions are further validated using near-isogenic lines,yeast two-hybrid,and split-luciferase complementation assays.Overall,this study provides a genetic network of rice heading date genes,which plays a crucial role in regulating rice heading date and influencing multiple related agronomic traits.This network serves as a foundation for understanding the genetic mechanisms of rice quantitative traits and for advancing rice molecular breeding.展开更多
Functional traits are characteristics associated with the growth,reproduction,and survival of individuals.Studying them helps us understand how species traits drive ecosystem functioning.Thus,we evaluated the differen...Functional traits are characteristics associated with the growth,reproduction,and survival of individuals.Studying them helps us understand how species traits drive ecosystem functioning.Thus,we evaluated the differences in traits and functional diversity between forest edges and interiors,and how the inclusion of intraspecific trait variation affects the assessment of functional diversity in these habitats.We sampled 10 representative forest patches,and,in each patch,we established five plots on the edge and five inside the forest,collecting leaf functional traits,allometric and wood density for all species.We assessed functional diversity using functional richness(FRic),divergence(FDiv),and dispersion(FDis).To assess the impact of incorporating intraspecific variation when comparing trait values and functional diversity indices,we established two scenarios:one that excludes intraspecific variation and another that includes it.We found that the edge and interior harbor individuals with distinct functional traits that alleviate the inherent stress of each habitat.The edge was also found to be more selective in terms of the range of functional traits,resulting in lower functional diversity.Our findings demonstrated that habitats play an important role in intraspecific trait variation(ITV)and that statistically significant differences between habitats,in relation to traits and functional diversity,were better observed with the inclusion of intraspecific variation.Our study highlights the potential of using natural forest patches to understand the edge effect,regardless of habitat loss.Additionally,we emphasize the importance of incorporating ITV into functional diversity studies,especially those on a smaller scale that incorporate quantitative variables,to better understand and predict ecological patterns.展开更多
基金financially funded by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(3186113307,31770533,31870591)the West Light Talent Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(xbzg-zdsys-202218).
文摘The karst forest in southwestern China is characterized by thin soil layers,numerous fissures and holes,resulting in low soil water availability and poor water retention,making it challenging for plant growth and survival.While the relationship between plant functional traits and tree growth performance has been extensively studied,the links between tree seasonal growth and drought-tolerant traits in tree species with different leaf habit remains poorly understood.This study evaluated the associations between four-year averaged rainy season stem diameter growth rate and 17 branch and leaf traits across evergreen and deciduous species in a tropical karst forest in southwest China.The cross-species variations in tree growth rates were related to plant hydraulic traits(e.g.,vessel lumen diameter,xylem vessel density,stomatal density,and stomatal size)and leaf anatomical traits(e.g.,total leaf thickness,lower/upper epidermis thickness,and spongy thickness).The growth of evergreen trees exhibited lower hydraulic efficiency but greater drought tolerance than deciduous tree,which enabled them to maintain higher persistence under low soil water availability and consequently a relatively longer growing season.In contrast,deciduous species showed no correlation between their functional traits and growth rate.The distinct water use strategies of evergreen and deciduous trees may offer a potential explanation for their co-existence in the tropical karst forests.
文摘To screen high-quality early-maturing rapeseed germplasm resources,this study took six early-maturing Brassica napus varieties(ZY1,ZY2,ZY3,ZY4,ZY5,and ZY6)as research objects to compare and analyze their agronomic traits,resistance,and yield traits.The results showed that the six early-maturing rapeseed varieties exhibited strong pre-winter growth,with the number of green leaf on the main stem ranging from 9.0 to 11.6,the total leaf number of main stem from 11.8 to 14.2,the maximum leaf length on main stem from 41.28 cm to 47.54 cm,the maximum leaf width from 12.02 cm to 13.38 cm,and the rhizome thickness from 20.64 mm to 25.82 mm.The order of green leaf,total leaf,maximum leaf length,and rhizome thickness from high to low across varieties was ZY1>ZY2>ZY3>ZY4>ZY5>ZY6,while the maximum leaf width followed ZY2>ZY1>ZY3>ZY4>ZY5>ZY6.Compared with other varieties,ZY1 and ZY2 had earlier bolting,initial flowering,final flowering,and harvesting times.The growth periods of the varieties were 183-189 d,with ZY1 being the shortest(183 d)and ZY2 following(185 d).Resistance investigations showed that ZY1 had the lowest freeze damage rate(13%)and freeze damage index(0.043),followed by ZY2(15%and 0.060).No Sclerotinia stem rot was observed at the seedling stage,while all varieties developed the disease at maturity;ZY1 had the lowest incidence(15%)and disease index(0.050),followed by ZY2(18%and 0.070).In terms of yield traits,the yield per plant of the six varieties ranged from 11.46 g to 14.53 g,with ZY1 being the highest(14.53 g)and ZY2 following(13.42 g).In conclusion,ZY1 and ZY2 exhibited vigorous pre-winter growth,early bolting and flowering,short growth periods,strong freeze and disease resistance,and high yield per plant,making them ideal materials for early-maturing rapeseed breeding.
基金supported by the Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(Grant Nos.LZ24C130004 and LQ24C130008)。
文摘Heading date is one of the most important agronomic traits that directly affect rice yield and determines the regional adaptability in specific growing environments.As a short-day plant,rice can grow under long-day(LD)conditions due to the synergistic regulation of many photosensitive genes.Using a set of chromosome segment substitution lines(CSSLs)with the indica cultivar Huanghuazhan(HHZ)as the recipient parent and Basmati Surkh 89-15(BAS)as the donor parent,we identified a QTL locus.
基金supported by National Natural Science Foundation of China(32302371 to Junbin Chen)the National Key Research and Development Program,Ministry of Science and Technology of China(2022YFD1201802 to Wangsheng Zhu)Research Program from State Key Laboratory of Maize Biobreeding(SKLMB2424 to Wangsheng Zhu).
文摘Pythium stalk rot(PSR)is a destructive disease of maize,severely affecting yield and grain quality.The identification of quantitative trait loci(QTL)or genes for resistance to PSR forms the basis of diseaseresistant hybrids breeding.In this study,a major QTL,Resistance to Pythium stalk rot 1(RPSR1),was identified from a set of recombinant inbred lines derived from MS71 and POP.Using a recombinant progeny testing strategy,RPSR1 was fine-mapped in a 472 kb interval.Through candidate gene expression,gene knock-down and knock-out studies,a leucine-rich repeat receptor-like kinase gene,PEP RECEPTOR 2(ZmPEPR2),was assigned as a PSR resistance gene.These results provide insights into the genetic architecture of resistance to PSR in maize,which should facilitate breeding maize for resistance to stalk rot.
基金supported by funding from the National Key R&D Program of China(2023ZD0407304)the Sci-Tech Innovation 2030 Agenda(2022ZD0115703)Fundamental Research Funds for Central Non-Profit of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences(Y2023PT20).
文摘Epigenetics-mediated breeding(epibreeding)involves engineering crop traits and stress responses through the targeted manipulation of key epigenetic features to enhance agricultural productivity.While conventional breeding methods raise concerns about reduced genetic diversity,epibreeding propels crop improvement through epigenetic variations that regulate gene expression,ultimately impacting crop yield.Epigenetic regulation in crops encompasses various modes,including histone modification,DNA modification,RNA modification,non-coding RNA,and chromatin remodeling.This review summarizes the epigenetic mechanisms underlying major agronomic traits in maize and identifies candidate epigenetic landmarks in the maize breeding process.We propose a valuable strategy for improving maize yield through epibreeding,combining CRISPR/Cas-based epigenome editing technology and Synthetic Epigenetics(SynEpi).Finally,we discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with maize trait improvement through epibreeding.
文摘Introduction: Sickle cell disease is one of the most common autosomal recessive inherited diseases. Its prevalence is increasing due to the perpetuity of carriers of the trait who are able to marry. Women aged 18 to 35 years constitute the most reproductive age group. This study was conducted with the aim of determining the prevalence of sickle cell trait among women aged 18 to 35 years and the attitude of women carriers towards the choice of a carrier spouse. Materials and methods: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study with analytical aims conducted from March to September 2024 in Kisangani. A total of 215 women aged 18 to 35 years presented for screening for sickle cell trait. This study described the following parameters: Sociodemographic data (age, level of education, socioeconomic level, marital status), obstetric and medical history (obstetric formula, sickle cell disease, high blood pressure, diabetes mellitus, asthma), knowledge of sickle cell disease (etiological classification, transmission, prevention, high-risk marriages, clinical manifestations, progression of the disease), attitude of the woman in relation to the choice of an AS spouse, as well as the reasons justifying each attitude. Results: The prevalence of sickle cell trait was 23.7% (51/215). A total of 64.3% of respondents had accepted the choice of spouse before confirmation of carrier status and 73.8% had refused after confirmation of carrier status. Choice was significantly related to age (p-value = 0.027), occupation (p-value = 0.015), parity (p-value = 0.039) and gesture (p-value = 0.034) before test. The ignorance of the union at risk was associated with the risk (p = 0.005;OR: 9.10;CI 95%: 2.03 - 4.81) of accepting the choice of a spouse carrying the trait. Conclusion: The prevalence of sickle cell trait among women aged 18 to 35 years in Kisangani remains within the limits of that of the general population. The choice of a spouse carrying sickle cell trait is associated with the woman’s age, her profession, parity, gestation and her knowledge about high-risk unions. Screening campaigns and health education sessions enable women carrying sickle cell trait to make a wise choice.
文摘Objective:The combination of science and art in nursing is essential for providing effective care.Since art is inherent and a part of human personality traits,it is believed that nurses’personality traits are important to achieve this cohesive combination in nursing.Accordingly,this study was conducted to determine the relationship between nurses’personality traits and the esthetics of nursing care.Methods:A cross-sectional descriptive design was employed.Study participants that consisted of 95 nurses and 285 patients from health centers in Iran were selected by convenience sampling method.Measures included the five-factor personality questionnaires(NEO-FFI)scale and Esthetics of Nursing Care Scale(ENCS).Results:The findings indicated a significant relationship between neuroticism(r=−0.149,P=0.028)and extraversion traits(r=0.136,P=0.045)of nurses in esthetics nursing care.In this study,no significant relationship was found between the personality traits and esthetics of nursing care using nurses’demographic information.Conclusions:The esthetics of nursing care depends on nurse personality traits.Since the art of nursing complements the expected care,it is suggested that nursing managers pay attention to the personality traits of nurses in planning to provide effective care.
基金supported by the National Key R&D Program of China(2024YFF1306700)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(82260739)+2 种基金the Yunnan Provincial Science and Technology Department-Applied Basic Research Joint Special Funds of Yunnan University of Chinese Medicine(202101AZ070001-005,202101AZ070001-166)the Yunnan Revitalization Talent Support Program“Young Talent”Project(YNWR-QNBJ-2020-278)Strategic Priority Research Program of the Chinese Academy of Sciences(XDB1230000).
文摘Amomum tsaoko Crevost&Lemarie is a perennial herb belonging to the genus Amomum in the family Zingiberaceae(Fig.S1;Wu and Kai,2000).It is primarily distributed in southern China,with smaller populations occurring in northern Vietnam(Yang et al.,2022).The dried fruit of A.tsaoko is widely used in traditional Chinese medicine for treating gastrointestinal disorders,vomiting,and malaria(Chinese Pharmacopoeia Commission,2025).
文摘This study investigated the political,economic,social,and cultural environment perceptions on international students that define their acculturation and health related quality of life.Participants were 117 international students from 32 countries attending a Chinese university(females=43%,mean age=21.17 years,SD=4.45 years).They reported on their acculturation to China and physical and psychological well-being.Results from t-tests and correlation analyses indicate political liberals had more positive attitudes toward China than the conservatives,and higher self-reported physical and psychological results.Higher scores on the“interdependence”dimension of self-construal,as well as the“extraversion”and“emotional stability”dimensions of personality traits,were associated with more positive views of China and better health outcomes.These findings are consistent with Berry’s framework for acculturation,which posits that individual-level variables are related to cultural adaptation,and that cultural adaptation is associated with improved physical and mental health.International student offices at host universities should implement comprehensive support programs,including language assistance,cultural orientation,and social integration initiatives to effectively enhance the health related quality of life of international students.
基金funded by the National Research,Development and Innovation Office(NKFIH FK 142428 grant)The contribution of Z.B.was supported by the János Bolyai Research Scholarship of the Hungarian Academy of Sciences and by the New National Excellence Program of the Ministry for Culture and Innovation from the source of the National Research,Development and Innovation Fund(ÚNKP-23-5-SZTE-697)+2 种基金K.F.was supported by the New National Excellence Program of the Ministry for Culture and Innovation from the source of the National Research,Development and Innovation Fund(ÚNKP-23-3-SZTE-441)C.T.was supported by the NKFIH K 146137 grantA.E-V.was supported by the long-term research development project of the Czech Academy of Sciences(RVO 67985939).
文摘Topographic complexity supports the maintenance of a high diversity of microhabitats,which may act as important‘safe havens’-or microrefugia-for biodiversity.Microrefugia are sites with specific environmental conditions that facilitate the persistence of species during environmental changes and exhibit unique ecoevolutionary dynamics.However,our knowledge about how topographic complexity and related ecoevolutionary selective forces influence the functional and phylogenetic signatures of species assemblages in microrefugia is very limited.Although the conceptual framework on the systematic integration of plant functional traits into the study of refugia is well established,more empirical studies on functional trait composition and functional diversity in refugia are urgently needed for more effective conservation.Here we analyzed the distribution of various plant functional traits and phylogenetic patterns in microhabitats(south-and north-facing slopes,and bottoms)of 30 large topographic depressions(i.e.doline microrefugia)and microhabitats of the surrounding plateaus in two distant forested karst regions.We found that plant assemblages in the understory of dolines and their surroundings are characterized by unique functional values and combinations of traits.Doline bottoms had the highest functional diversity among doline microhabitats and supported plant assemblages with considerably different trait compositions from the plateaus.Bottoms also had the highest phylogenetic diversity.These results suggest that topographic complexity in forested dolines has a significant effect on the distribution of plant functional traits in the understory.High functional and phylogenetic diversity in doline bottoms can have important consequences for the long-term survival of plant populations,highlighting that these microhabitats may provide a higher resilience and support an adaptive community-level response to natural and anthropogenic stressors.Understanding mechanisms that drive the survival of species within microrefugia is required to determine the best conservation and management strategies.
基金supported jointly by the earmarked fund for CARS-10-GW2the key research and development program of Hainan Province(Grant No.ZDYF2020226)+1 种基金Collaborative innovation center of Nanfan and high-efficiency tropical agriculture,Hainan University(Grant No.XTCX2022NYC21)funding of Hainan University[Grant No.KYQD(ZR)22123]。
文摘Heat stress hinders the growth and productivity of sweetpotato plants,predominantly through oxidative damage to cellular membranes.Therefore,the development of efficient approaches for mitigating heat-related impairments is essential for the long-term production of sweetpotatoes.Melatonin has been recognised for its capacity to assist plants in dealing with abiotic stress conditions.This research aimed to investigate how different doses of exogenous melatonin influence heat damage in sweetpotato plants.Heat stress drastically affected shoot and root fresh weight by 31.8 and 44.5%,respectively.This reduction resulted in oxidative stress characterised by increased formation of hydrogen peroxide(H_(2)O_(2))by 804.4%,superoxide ion(O_(2)^(·-))by 211.5%and malondialdehyde(MDA)by 234.2%.Heat stress also reduced chlorophyll concentration,photosystemⅡefficiency(F_v/F_m)by 15.3%and gaseous exchange.However,pre-treatment with 100μmol L^(-1)melatonin increased growth and reduced oxidative damage to sweetpotato plants under heat stress.In particular,melatonin decreased H_(2)O_(2),O_(2)^(·-)and MDA by 64.8%,42.7%and 38.2%,respectively.Melatonin also mitigated the decline in chlorophyll levels and improved stomatal traits,gaseous exchange and F_(v)/F_(m)(13%).Results suggested that the favorable outcomes of melatonin treatment can be associated with elevated antioxidant enzyme activity and an increase in non-enzymatic antioxidants and osmo-protectants.Overall,these findings indicate that exogenous melatonin can improve heat stress tolerance in sweetpotatoes.This stu dy will assist re searchers in further investigating how melatonin makes sweetpotatoes more resistant to heat stress.
基金supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2023YFD1200403 and 2023YFF1000600)the Innovation Program of Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences。
文摘Wheat(Triticum aestivum L.)is an important staple food crop in the world and supplies about 20%of human caloric and protein consumption(Giraldo et al.,2019;Xiao et al.,2022).Wheat production accounts for~30%of global cereal crops(Li et al.,2019).With the global population increasing and the frequency of natural disasters rising,enhancing wheat yield is crucial to meet food demand.Spike traits such as increased grain number per spike are key determinants of wheat yield.Pre-harvest sprouting(PHS)is a significant natural disaster that severely impacts grain yield and end-use quality of wheat(Tai et al.,2021,2024).
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32201304)the Fundamental Research Funds for the Central Universities(No.2412022QD026).
文摘Habitat fragmentation poses a significant threat to bird communities, especially those in open and semi-open ecosystems such as steppes. This study investigates how steppe birds adapt to and utilize fragmented habitats by combining niche modeling with ecological trait analysis. We conducted standardized point surveys to examine the habitat preferences of 32 bird species in Inner Mongolia, China, and quantified their habitat niche parameters using the Outlying Mean Index (OMI). Our results reveal distinct habitat preferences among species, with some thriving in intact environments while others are better adapted to fragmented areas. Grassland species showed high specialization along the fragmentation gradient, while others exhibited adaptability to varying levels of fragmentation. Using a Generalized Additive Model (GAM), we identified three key traits influencing habitat occupancy: hand-wing index, body mass, and range size. Specifically, species with medium hand-wing indices, moderate body mass, and larger range sizes were more likely to occupy heavily fragmented habitats. These findings provide empirical evidence on how habitat fragmentation affects bird species in steppe ecosystems. The study highlights the importance of functional traits in understanding avian responses to habitat fragmentation and offers a foundation for developing effective conservation strategies to preserve biodiversity in fragmented landscapes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32271611)Functional traits of plant communities at different elevation gradients in the Taibai Mountain of Qinling Mountains financed by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China(No.2016YFC0500202)245 Qinling National Forest Ecosystem Research Station in 2022 financed by Ministry of Education of China.
文摘Root anatomical traits play an important role in understanding the link between root physiological function and ecological process. To determine how plants change root anatomical traits to adapt to distinct environments, we measured four key root anatomical traits-stele diameter(SD), cortex thickness(CT), root diameter(RD), and the stele to root diameter ratio(SDRD)-of first-order roots of 82species collected from different vegetation zones along a 2000 m altitudinal gradient on the northern slope of Taibai Mountain. Compared with other altitudes, plants located in temperate birch and fir forests had thinner SD, CT, RD, and SDRD. We found that elevational variation in root anatomical traits could largely be explained by phylogenetic taxonomy(clade). In addition, changes in SD were driven by soil bulk density, whereas variations in CT and RD were influenced by soil available nitrogen. When phylogenetic factors were removed from our analysis, allometric relationships between RD and root anatomical traits(SD and CT) were observed across different altitudes. Our study reveals the influence of phylogeny and environment on the elevational variation in root anatomical traits and further supports the allometric relationship between root anatomical traits(SD and CT) and RD. These findings enhance our understanding of the evolutionary and adaptive mechanisms of root anatomical structures, providing a basis for predicting how root anatomical traits respond to global changes.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(No.32271673)5·5 Engineering Research&Innovation Team Project of Beijing Forestry University(No.BLRC2023B06).
文摘Rapid urbanization has contributed to global increases in air pollution derived from urban areas.Unlike natural forests,urban forests are exposed to higher concentrations of airborne pollutants due to the strong urban-suburban-rural pollutant emission gradients.However,there remains a pressing lack of available information pertaining to the urban air pollutionrelated effects on the leaf economics spectrum,anatomical,ultrastructural,and stomatal traits of tree species along an urban-rural gradient.Here,the degree to which urban air pollution impacts the adaption of greening tree species and associated service functions was assessed by sampling five common tree species(Acer pictum,Fraxinus chinensis,Koelreuteria paniculata,Salix babylonica,Sophora japonica)along urban-rural-natural forests in the Beijing metropolitan region of China.These analyses revealed a significant reduction in leaf mass per unit area(-13.4%),leaf thickness(-16.7%),and stomatal area(-27.5%)with increasing proximity to areas of greater air pollution that coincide with significant increases in leaf tissue density(+12.6%),leaf nitrogen content(+10.1%),relative chlorophyll content(+2.7%),and stomatal density(+11.9%).Higher air pollution levels were associated with organelle changes including gradual disintegration of chloroplasts,larger intercellular spaces and apparent starch and plastoglobuli deposition.Air pollutionwas conducive to the strengthening of the trade-off potential and adaptation strategies of trees in urban ecosystems,which are associated with trees with a rapid investment return strategy associated with thick leaves and strong photosynthetic capacity.These results provide strong empirical evidence of the profound air pollution-induced changes in leaf functional traits and adaption ability of urban forest tree species.
基金National Natural Science Foundation of China(3216045632360474+2 种基金32360486)grants from the Provincial Basic Research Program(Natural Science)([2020]1Z018)Provincial Key Technology R&D Program([2021]YiBan272).
文摘Seed priming is an effective seed pretreatment technology that enhances germination and overall crop performance by optimizing seed hydration and metabolic processes before planting.Seed quality is a critical determinant of cotton(Gossypium hirsutum)crop performance,influencing germination,plant vigor,and yield.This study evaluates the effects of seed priming with potassium salts(1%and 2%KCl and K2SO4)on germination,morphological traits,and Cry1Ac gene expression in three Bt cotton cultivars(IUB-2013,NIAB-878B,FH-142)as Cry1Ac enhance the pest resistance in Bt cotton and reduce the plant’s dependence on chemical insecticides.Seeds were primed for six hours,air-dried,and sown in the field.Germination rates,plant height,number of bolls per plant,boll weight,seed cotton yield,and ginning outturn(GOT)were assessed at crop maturity.Cry1Ac gene expression was quantified to explore the influence of priming treatments on transgene activity.Results demonstrated that 1%K2SO4 priming significantly enhanced germination and yield-related traits,with Cry1Ac expression peaking in the IUB-2013 cultivar under 1%K2SO4 treatment.These findings suggest that potassium-based halopriming improves cotton seedling establishment and Bt gene expression.This study addresses the critical gaps in understanding the effects of seed halopriming on morphological traits,germination,and expression of the Cry1Ac gene in Bt cotton while providing a novel eco-friendly and cost-effective halopriming approach,offering the potential to improve cotton production.
基金funded by the National Key Research and Development Program of China(2016YFD0100203 and 2016YFD0102000)the Key Scientific and Technological Projects of the Eighth Division of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps(XPCC),China(2024NY01,2023 NY09,2023 NY10)+2 种基金the Key Scientific and Technological Project of XPCC,China(2021AB010)the Postgraduate Research&Practice Innovation Program of Jiangsu Province,China(KYCX22_0748)supported by the High-performance Computing Platform of the Bioinformatics Center,Nanjing Agricultural University,China。
文摘Gossypium raimondii(2n=2x=26,D_(5)),an untapped wild species,is the putative progenitor of the D-subgenome of G.hirsutum(2n=4x=52,AD_(1)),an extensively cultivated species.Here,we developed a G.hirsutum(recipient)–G.raimondii(donor)introgression population to exploit the favorable QTLs/genes and mapped potential quantitative trait loci(QTLs)from wild cotton species.The introgression population consisted of 256 lines with an introgression rate of 52.33%for the G.raimondii genome.The introgression segment length range was 0.03–19.12 Mb,with an average of 1.22 Mb.The coverage of total introgression fragments from G.raimondii was 386.98 Mb.Further genome-wide association analysis(Q+K+MLM)and QTL mapping(RSTEP-LRT)identified 59 common QTLs,including 14 stable QTLs and six common QTL(co-QTL)clusters,and one hotspot of micronaire(MIC).The common QTLs for seed index all showed positive additive effects,while the common QTLs for boll weight all had negative additive effects,indicating that the linkage between seed index and boll weight could be broken.QTLs for lint percentage showed positive effects and could be beneficial for improving cotton yield.Most QTLs for fiber quality had negative additive effects,implying these QTLs were domesticated/improved in G.hirsutum.A few fiber quality QTLs showed positive additive effects,so they could be used to improve cotton fiber quality.The introgression lines developed could be useful for molecular marker-assisted breeding and mapping QTLs precisely for mining desirable genes from the wild species G.raimondii.Such genes can improve cultivated cotton in the future through a designbreeding approach.
基金supported by the Second Tibetan Plateau Scientific Expedition and Research(STEP)Program(2019QZKK05010900 and 2019QZKK05010405)the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32100339 and 32200350)+3 种基金Yunnan Revitalization Talent Support Program Top team(202405AS350022)supported by the Youth Innovation Promotion Association,Chinese Academy of Sciencessupported by Yunnan Fundamental Research Projects(202201AU070208)supported by Yunnan Revitalization Talent Support Program Yunling Scholar Project(XML)。
文摘Understanding how species diverge and adapt is fundamental to unraveling biodiversity.While environmental impacts on species evolution are well-documented,the roles of intrinsic life-history traits remain underexplored.The Qinghai-Xizang Plateau,with its harsh conditions and unique biodiversity,offers a natural laboratory for such investigations.Here,we examine two sympatric small mammals—the solitary,low-dispersal plateau zokor(Eospalax baileyi)and the social,high-dispersal plateau pika(Ochotona curzoniae)—to elucidate how life-history traits shape population structures and adaptive strategies.Through whole-genome sequencing and cardiac-blood phenotype analyses,we reveal striking differences in their evolutionary trajectories.Despite enduring similar environmental pressures,plateau zokor populations exhibit pronounced genetic subdivisions,high inbreeding,and distinct local adaptations.In contrast,plateau pika populations display genetic panmixia,widespread diversity,and adaptive uniformity.Demographic inference highlights that plateau zokors experienced severe population bottlenecks and restricted gene flow during glacial periods,underscoring the impact of dispersal capacity on evolutionary outcomes.Our findings demonstrate that intrinsic biological traits,particularly dispersal ability,fundamentally influence genetic architecture,population connectivity,and local adaptation.This study not only provides empirical evidence of how life-history traits shape evolutionary dynamics but also offers a framework for integrating intrinsic and extrinsic factors in understanding biodiversity formation.
基金supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China(32222064 and 32341030)the Natural Science Foundation of Shanghai(22ZR1445800)Zhejiang Provincial Natural Science Foundation of China(LQ24C130008).
文摘Several quantitative trait genes(QTGs)related to rice heading date,a key factor for crop development and yield,have been identified,along with complex interactions among genes.However,a comprehensive genetic interaction network for these QTGs has not yet been established.In this study,we use 18K-rice lines to identify QTGs and their epistatic interactions affecting rice heading date.We identify 264 pairs of interacting quantitative trait loci(QTL)and construct a comprehensive genetic network of these QTL.On average,the epistatic effects of QTL pairs are estimated to be approximately 12.5%of additive effects of identified QTL.Importantly,epistasis varies among different alleles of several heading date genes.Additionally,57 pairs of interacting QTGs are also significant in their epistatic effects on 12 other agronomic traits.The identified QTL genetic interactions are further validated using near-isogenic lines,yeast two-hybrid,and split-luciferase complementation assays.Overall,this study provides a genetic network of rice heading date genes,which plays a crucial role in regulating rice heading date and influencing multiple related agronomic traits.This network serves as a foundation for understanding the genetic mechanisms of rice quantitative traits and for advancing rice molecular breeding.
基金the Brazilian Coordination for the Improvement of Higher Education Personnel (CAPES) by granting the scholarship (Finance Code 001)supported by the Brazilian National Council for Scientific and Technological Development (CNPq, project number 433828/2018-8,435598/2018-0)+1 种基金the Minas Gerais Research Funding Foundation (FAPEMIG, project number CRA APQ 00929-15)CNPq productivity fellowships
文摘Functional traits are characteristics associated with the growth,reproduction,and survival of individuals.Studying them helps us understand how species traits drive ecosystem functioning.Thus,we evaluated the differences in traits and functional diversity between forest edges and interiors,and how the inclusion of intraspecific trait variation affects the assessment of functional diversity in these habitats.We sampled 10 representative forest patches,and,in each patch,we established five plots on the edge and five inside the forest,collecting leaf functional traits,allometric and wood density for all species.We assessed functional diversity using functional richness(FRic),divergence(FDiv),and dispersion(FDis).To assess the impact of incorporating intraspecific variation when comparing trait values and functional diversity indices,we established two scenarios:one that excludes intraspecific variation and another that includes it.We found that the edge and interior harbor individuals with distinct functional traits that alleviate the inherent stress of each habitat.The edge was also found to be more selective in terms of the range of functional traits,resulting in lower functional diversity.Our findings demonstrated that habitats play an important role in intraspecific trait variation(ITV)and that statistically significant differences between habitats,in relation to traits and functional diversity,were better observed with the inclusion of intraspecific variation.Our study highlights the potential of using natural forest patches to understand the edge effect,regardless of habitat loss.Additionally,we emphasize the importance of incorporating ITV into functional diversity studies,especially those on a smaller scale that incorporate quantitative variables,to better understand and predict ecological patterns.
